Kandi Kay Bleecker, age 54 of North Branch, passed away December 9, 2025, at her home after brief illness. She was born May 3, 1971 in Barron, Wisconson to Richard "Dick" and Elizabeth "Beth" McClay.

On August 22, 1998, Kandi married Craig Bleecker at Zion Lutheran Church in Turtle Lake, Wisconsin. They moved to North Branch shortly after and Kandi made this her home quickly where she made many lifelong friends. They raised two children together, Paige and Corey.

Kandi worked all her life with kids. Kandi found her passion for her love of caring for children at a young age. She started nannying out of high school, then worked at a preschool playhouse in her hometown of Turtle Lake. When Kandi and her husband Craig moved to North Branch, Kandi worked at Children's Connection & Next Best Thing to Grandma in the infant and toddler room.

Recently, Kandi transitioned to Youth Connection at North Branch Area Schools where she continued to care of young kids. Kandi found joy in her free time crafting, camping, kayaking, and snowmobiling. In 2024, Kandi welcomed her first grandson Ryden, which quickly became the light of her life.

She was survived by her husband Craig of 27 years, her daughter Paige (Carter), son Corey (Hannah) and grandson Ryden. She was also survived by her sisters Lisa, Terri and Lori (Erik) and brother Robin. Along with mother-in-law Renae, along with sister-in-law Julie (Travis) as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Kandi is proceeded in death by her parents, Dick and Beth, father-in-law Jerry and brother-in-law Tim.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch. Private family interment will take place at a later date.

Last Update: Dec 11, 2025 9:45 am CST